Is it safe to have a breast reduction procedure?

Q:

I'm 29 years old 5'2” and 300 lbs. I have had large breasts my entire life (even when I was slender) and they have caused all of the typical problems (back/neck pain, marks on my shoulders , etc and I even take muscle relaxers and pain medication for back spasms). I'm wondering at my weight would it be safe to "go under" and have this surgery or if there is minimal risk related to my weight and surgery?

A:

Your BMI is 54.86. If your BMI is over 40 then you are a Obese Class 3 patient and are Morbidly Obese. With a BMI of 40+ you have an extremely high risk of weight-related disease and premature death as compared to the general population. You are also at increased risk for complications with breast reduction surgery. Consider discussing your concerns with your surgeon and ask them to address your overall risks with your surgery. Best,

A:

At your weight, the risks of any surgery are markedly increased. Before you consider having a breast reduction, you need to lose significant weight. This will do two things. First, it will make your eventual surgery safer. Secondly, you will probably lose a significant amount from your breasts which will markedly improve any symptoms you are having. Also, if you have a reduction at your present weight and then lose weight as you really must in order to improve your health and prolong your life,you will need another breast procedure after the weight loss.

A:

At your weight, the risks of any surgery are markedly increased. Before you consider having a breast reduction, you need to lose significant weight. This will do two things. First, it will make your eventual surgery safer. Secondly, you will probably lose a significant amount from your breasts which will markedly improve any symptoms you are having. Also, if you have a reduction at your present weight and then lose weight as you really must in order to improve your health and prolong your life,you will need another breast procedure after the weight loss.